Winter Care Tips for Newborns - Keep Babies Healthy and Warm

Winter brings in festive cheer and beautiful snowscapes, but for new parents, it also means extra caution to protect their newborns. Unlike adults, babies do not regulate their body temperature well, which makes them vulnerable to illnesses during this season. 

Therefore, it becomes essential to provide appropriate care for your little ones. Here are some helpful tips on how to take care of newborns in
winter.

1. Maintain Room Temperature:

Since newborns cannot adjust to the temperature changes like adults,
ensure to maintain an even temperature in their room. It is advisable to keep it around 24-26 degrees Celsius (68-72 degrees Fahrenheit). Invest in a reliable indoor thermometer and maintain a balanced room temperature. Also, make sure that the baby's room is not overheated or chilly.

2. Dress them in Layers:

Instead of one heavy garment, dress your baby in multiple light layers. It is a convenient option because it allows for adding and removing layers according to changes in temperature. Make sure to cover their head and feet since they lose most heat from these areas. Avoid over-bundling your newborn, as this could lead to overheating, which is potentially harmful.

3. Skin Care:

The winter air can be dry, which can cause your newborn's skin to dry out, leading to chapping, redness, or rashes. Make sure you moisturize your baby's skin often with a mild lotion. Use a baby-safe lip balm for chapped lips and hydrate their nasal passages with a cool-mist humidifier in their room to help keep the mucus from drying up and leading to congestion.

4. Adequate Feeding:

Babies need extra nourishment during winter, and therefore, they may require
frequent feeding. Whether you are breastfeeding or formula feeding, ensure your newborn is receiving enough nourishment. However, always consult your paediatrician regarding your baby’s diet and the number of feeds per day.

5. Protect from Germs:

Winters are notorious for viruses like the flu and cold. To keep the baby
protected, maintain hygiene by washing your hands and sanitizing them before you handle the baby. Ensure visitors do the same, and it's a good idea to keep the baby away from those with a cold or flu.

6. Safe Sleep:

Avoid using heavy blankets or duvets to keep the baby warm during sleep as they increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Instead, use wearable blankets or sleep sacks which are safe alternatives.

7. Keep the Baby Hydrated:

Along with maintaining a proper feeding schedule, ensure that the baby
stays hydrated. This becomes even more essential if your child has started on solids.

8. Consult your Doctor:

If your baby is due for vaccinations, don't miss the appointments fearing the
cold. It's essential to stay on top of their vaccination schedule. Additionally, reach out to your doctor if you notice any signs of sickness like fever, cough, or if the baby appears to be unusually lethargic.

These tips will surely come in handy when it comes to taking care of your newborn in the chilly winter season. The ultimate goal is to keep your baby comfortable and warm. Pay attention to their cues and adjust their clothing, feeding, and sleeping arrangements accordingly.

Also, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if something doesn’t seem right. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your newborn stays healthy and comfortable during the winter months. Remember to always be vigilant about safety and practice good hygiene to keep your little one safe and warm.

About the author:

Shruti Roy is from Bhagalpur and currently resides in Ghaziabad. She has a NET in public administration and holds two master's degrees in English literature and public administration.

She has a PG Diploma in Hindi Journalism from Tilkamanjhi Bhagalpur University and a BA (Hons) in English Journalism from Delhi University.She has also had a brief relationship with Hindustan Times, JT News, and Sportskeeda. Writing for her is a pleasant and calming activity.

She enjoys writing in both Hindi and English, including essays, short stories, articles, and poems. Currently she is a homemaker and likes spending quality time with her 6 year old son Parth.